Introduction
Craving the savory goodness of a Philly cheesesteak but trying to stick to a low-carb or ketogenic lifestyle? Look no further! This homemade Philly cheesesteak casserole delivers all the classic flavors you love, without the guilt. We’ve perfected this recipe to be the best keto-friendly version you’ll find, packed with tender steak, melty cheese, and those iconic peppers and onions. Say goodbye to bread and hello to a satisfying, cheesy indulgence that fits perfectly into your diet.
Making the Best Low Carb Keto Philly Cheesesteak Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need
To create this mouthwatering casserole, gather these essential ingredients:
- Steak: Thinly sliced ribeye or sirloin is ideal for tenderness and flavor.
- Cheese: Provolone cheese is the classic choice, but feel free to experiment with mozzarella or even a sharp cheddar.
- Vegetables: Onions and bell peppers (green, red, or a mix) are essential for the authentic Philly cheesesteak flavor.
- Cream Cheese: Adds richness and creaminess to the casserole base.
- Heavy Cream: Contributes to the overall creaminess and binds the ingredients together.
- Beef Broth: Enhances the savory flavor of the steak.
- Seasonings: Salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder are all you need for perfectly seasoned steak and vegetables.
- Optional Toppings: Sliced mushrooms, jalapenos, or even a sprinkle of parmesan cheese can add extra layers of flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your low-carb Philly cheesesteak casserole:
- Prepare the Steak: Season the thinly sliced steak with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In a large skillet, sauté the sliced onions and bell peppers until they are tender and slightly caramelized.
- Cook the Steak: Add the seasoned steak to the skillet with the vegetables and cook until it is browned and cooked through. Drain any excess grease.
- Make the Creamy Base: In a separate bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, heavy cream, and beef broth. Mix until smooth and creamy.
- Assemble the Casserole: Spread the creamy base in the bottom of a greased baking dish. Layer the cooked steak and vegetable mixture on top of the cream cheese mixture.
- Add the Cheese: Top the casserole with slices of provolone cheese (or your preferred cheese).
- Bake: Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Cool and Serve: Let the casserole cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Tips for the Perfect Keto Philly Cheesesteak Casserole
- Use High-Quality Steak: The better the quality of the steak, the better the overall flavor of the casserole.
- Don’t Overcook the Steak: Overcooked steak will be tough and dry. Aim for a medium-rare to medium doneness.
- Customize Your Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables, such as mushrooms or jalapenos, to suit your taste.
- Use a Cast Iron Skillet: A cast iron skillet is perfect for both sautéing the vegetables and cooking the steak. It also retains heat well, which helps to keep the casserole warm.
- Make it Ahead: You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and bake it when you’re ready to eat. This is a great option for meal prepping.
Variations and Additions
Want to spice things up? Consider these variations:
- Spicy Version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some chopped jalapenos to the steak and vegetable mixture for a spicy kick.
- Mushroom Lovers: Sauté sliced mushrooms along with the onions and bell peppers.
- Extra Cheesy: Add a layer of shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese on top of the provolone for an extra cheesy casserole.
Conclusion
This low-carb keto Philly cheesesteak casserole is a delicious and satisfying way to enjoy the classic flavors of a Philly cheesesteak without the carbs. It’s easy to make, customizable to your liking, and perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering. So ditch the bread and indulge in this cheesy, savory, and keto-friendly delight! Enjoy!
